Hypnobirthing is a birthing method that offers a relaxing and stress-free labour. Focusing in on the psychological as well as the physical wellbeing of Mum, Baby and everyone involved, it prepares the expectant mother to give birth in a peaceful manner.
It is based on the belief that birthing should not be viewed as excruciatingly painful and helps the baby arrive in a relaxing and stress-free environment.
If you are considering it for your labour, the following will help you make your decision:
1. How does it work?
Hypnobirthing concentrates on breathing techniques, visualisation, body toning and meditative practice to help with the pain. Throughout your pregnancy you will be taught how to manage stress and stop you becoming worried or tense about labour - things that make it more painful.
2. What is the aim of it?
The aim of hypnobirthing is to achieve a comfortable birth, develop techniques to help you eliminate the fear of labour, create your body’s own natural anaesthesia, develop natural ways to bring Baby into the world and to use your natural instincts when giving birth. It is there to teach you that giving birth does not have to be agonising, and that it can be a joyful experience.
3. Who is it for?
Hypnobirthing can be used by low-risk women as well as those needing medical assistance as it is simply educates them about pregnancy, dispels myths and helps you bring Baby into the world in a calm and gentle way.
4. What are the advantages of it?
- It helps eliminate the fear of labour
- Reduces the need for painkillers
- Can help to reduce the risk of postnatal depression
- Can shorten labour by up to four hours
- Helps Mum achieve a gentle, calm birthing experience
- Breathing techniques that help Mum bring Baby into the world without too much hard pushing
- Can help to reduce the number of caesareans required
- Keeps Baby alert throughout the entire process
- Teaches you how to be confident when talking to medical professionals
- Most importantly, it helps you stay in control of your own birthing experience
